Observe how the joggers use the round alleys. It is 6 a.m. here at Parc de la Porte de Ninove. They use the park as training tracks. Parc de la Porte de Ninove is a vibrant space. It connects three Brussels municipalities. These are Anderlecht, Molenbeek-Saint-Jean and Brussels-City.
Parc de la Porte de Ninove spans 2.4 hectares. It sits between the Charleroi canal and the “Petite Ceinture”. It is also near Quai de l’Industrie and Boulevard Poincaré. The park reflects the city’s ever changing nature. It embraces urban life, society and the economy.
The design for Parc de la Porte de Ninove dates back to 2019. But in 2016, the design firm engaged with locals. They spoke with neighborhood associations. They imagined the park’s layout. They anticipated future needs. The park is always evolving. It changes based on observations and how people use it.
Parc de la Porte de Ninove offers a variety of features. These include sports equipment and a playground. There is a multipurpose area for events. You can also play pétanque. Benches and bins are available. A pavilion sits near the lock. It offers food and drinks all year. The kiosk has a social and cultural mission. It also provides professional training.
Parc de la Porte de Ninove is designed for everyone. It provides access for people with reduced mobility. Some areas are off limits to walkers. These zones help revive biodiversity.
Until the early 20th century, the canal had a lock. It was along the octroi pavilions. It then turned right to another lock along Boulevard des Industries. To avoid the sharp turn, major work rerouted the canal. The two locks were replaced. The current Molenbeek lock was constructed.
These works left the area damaged for decades. It became wasteland with warehouses. In 2016, perspective.brussels was tasked by the Brussels Government. They created a Master Plan for the Porte de Ninove. The goal was to transform the urban area. It would become a welcoming and attractive place. Public spaces were redeveloped and a new green space was created.
The park’s construction finished in 2019. Today, locals have embraced Parc de la Porte de Ninove. This is thanks to the work of park keepers and the participatory process since 2016. The park is evolving. New features have been tested. Some have become permanent.
The old octroi pavilions are classified since 1998. Built in 1833-34 by architect Payen, they collected taxes. These were on goods entering the city. In 1860, the tax was abolished. Most pavilions were demolished. Those at Porte de Ninove are unique. They have never been moved or altered.
The wall along Quai de l’Industrie is a remnant. It is from the old Brussels slaughterhouses. They stood where the Arts et Métiers Institute is now.
In the center of Parc de la Porte de Ninove, a vast urban meadow exists. Sloping rings create steps and slopes. They offer protection from disturbances. The rings provide space for benches. A wet garden highlights water’s importance and the canal’s history. The plants are typical of the Senne’s wet valleys.
The Plan d’Aménagement Directeur aims to solidify Parc de la Porte de Ninove. It will ensure it remains a green space for future generations. The plan includes a renovated sports hub. It will open onto the park. Public housing, shops, and facilities are planned. The park is set to connect these housing projects.
Parc de la Porte de Ninove is more than just a green space. It is a place where communities connect. It is where nature and urban life meet. It is a testament to Brussels’ commitment to its residents’ well being.